2026 US Open Cup Qualifying

2026 US Open Cup Qualifying: Stoppage time goals send NY Renegades past Zum Schneider, back to USOC

November 25, 2025 by Dave Einhorn

NY Renegades celebrate after defeating Zum Schneider FC 4-2 in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: NY Renegades

The New York Renegades defeated Zum Schneider 4-2 on Sunday night to clinch the club’s second straight US Open Cup berth. The Renegades were heavily favored, but both sides contested well: trading goals, well-timed shots, and hard tackles throughout the 90 minutes.

After the match, New York Renegades founder and manager Boris Linares credited his team for their hard work throughout the tournament.

“Any team can give you a battle, and everybody comes at us hard. Everybody plays a hell of a game,” Linares said. “They didn’t come to roll over … and I expect my players to know that, but they responded.”

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Renegades drew first blood with an excellent goal from Junior Rosero. A long ball from the halfway line bounced once in front of Rosero, who had a defender challenging him for the ball and his back to goal. Rosero used his skill, touch — and some yoga moves — to spin his defender and toe-poke the ball over the onrushing goalkeeper.

The goal was a step in the right direction for the Renegades, but their lead wouldn’t last long.

Moments later, Tomas de Andrade Gomes was left unmarked at the back post and was able to slide in and redirect a cross into the net. The response was swift, the slide was stylish, and the equalizer signaled it was game on.

While the referee didn’t have a significant influence on the match, he did make a few important calls. Several crunching tackles and late challenges lead to yellow cards.

The most controversial of the first half came in the 31st minute as Zum Schneider’s Jason Budhai received the ball on the right at the top of the box. He executed some swift step-overs before coming into contact with the Renegades’ Cristian Garcia. Despite the foul and goal-scoring opportunity, Garcia did not receive a yellow card, which would have been his second. The referee was consistent in calling fouls and issuing cards, but the nature of the match changed nearly instantly.

The second half mirrored the first with the same sense of battle, grit, and now, urgency with the match tied at 1-1.

The Renegades once again took the lead early in the half as a cross from the right was smashed home by an unmarked Samuel Caceres to make it 2-1.

Gomes would answer after he found himself in space and saw his shot deflected. Still, a poor clearance set up a perfect volley for Gomes, who once again equalized at 2-2. Fans of Zum Schneider in attendance exploded with flags and songs in support.

When all signs pointed to extra time, the Renegades found the breakthrough. They scored not one, but two late goals to ensure they would move on to the 2026 US Open Cup.

The first came from Eric Turcios, who got a touch on a low cross from Garcia. Turcios had been out injured, didn’t start the match, but had the crucial touch that sealed the win. Turcios is making a name for himself in scoring dramatic late winners, as he had also scored a late winner against the NY Braveheart to send the Renegades to the UPSL National Finals.

Zum Schneider had four minutes to find some Open Cup magic. They made quick substitutions and did their best to get into an attacking position. It was clear that going for the equalizer would leave them exposed, as Sebastian Ruiz got free on the left and hit the post.

Zum Schneider’s tired legs and broken hearts were starting to show as Ruiz once again got free in a similar area and this time did not miss the far corner. He left the goalkeeper rooted to his spot, Zum Schneider’s dreams dashed, and sent his team into pandemonium with the final score to make it 4-2.

2026 US Open Cup Qualifying: San Ramon FC earns first USOC berth after foggy win vs. Olympic Club

November 25, 2025 by Abram Heredia

San Ramon FC celebrates after defeating The Olympic Club 2-1 in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: TJ Valenton

The fog was thick, and so was the tension in the stands as San Ramon FC narrowly emerged victorious with a 2-1 win over Olympic Club to punch its ticket to the 2026 US Open Cup for the first time in club history.

Olympic looked threatening from set pieces throughout the match, but it was the goal in the fifth minute that showed just how dangerous they could be.

A wide free kick found the head of Andrew Ellis, who knocked it down for Kaya Fabbretti. Fabbretti took full advantage of his opportunity and finished with a half volley at close range, giving his side the early lead.

An external factor that ended up having a big effect on this match was the rampant fog. Those among the crowd complained often about not being able to see the play happening on the far side of the field. In no moment was the fog more impactful than in the 22nd minute, when SRFC midfielder Roberto Gonzalez took advantage of the limited visibility and blasted his free-kick straight into the center of the goal. The Olympic keeper strafed to his right as the kick was taken, then watched as the ball went in where he had just been standing.

When asked about whether or not the heavy fog was a factor for his team, SRFC Head Coach Bejam Esmaili said it was.

“Because the way we play, we like to keep the ball, we like to switch play, we like to go to the other side,” Esmaili said. “When you can’t see the other side and you don’t know you have a player available … it’s an effect.”

Just before halftime, Olympic Club demonstrated its set-piece prowess yet again with a free kick from Daniel Kirkland, once more making its way to Ellis in the box, but it was not to be, and the score remained 1-1.

Though SRFC played a possession-oriented game, Olympic Club proved to be a very formidable counter to its style of play. The midfield pairing of captain Stefan Clemmens and Kirkland, who exhibited a powerful combination of experience and physicality, was complemented by winger Kaya Fabbretti, who offered blistering pace in counterattacks.

San Ramon FC and The Olympic Club line up for pre-game introductions ahead of a final round match in the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Abram Heredia

Once the fog began to clear, SRFC started to find rhythm.

In the 58th minute, 19-year-old Carver Jensen latched onto a poor clearance from the defender and drove at the off-balance defence. Jensen sized up his man before cutting in sharply from the left and expertly placing the ball into the far bottom corner. A composed finish from Jensen — despite being the youngest player on the pitch — to score what would ultimately be the winning goal. Jensen continues his streak of getting at least one goal contribution in his last three US Open Cup appearances.

Fog or not, what is clear is that as a result of this match, San Ramon FC qualifies for the US Open Cup for the first time.

The fog was real last night, and rare for that field.

2 hours before kickoff, skies were clear. @KarlTheFog are you a @opencup #soccer fan?

😶‍🌫️ descended quickly onto the pitch before kickoff and lingered for 30ish minutes.

📸 @tjvpix @usopencup @zimpix #SanRamonFC https://t.co/x34wtgUNjV pic.twitter.com/crcy5mxyxF
— San Ramon FC ⚽️ (@SanRamonFC) November 25, 2025

On this accomplishment, Esmaili beamed.

“I’m so proud of them, the boys. They worked so hard all year,” he said. “They’re such great people. I am just beyond happy for them and so proud of them.”

2026 US Open Cup Qualifying: Red Force FC to make 5th trip to USOC after win over City Soccer

November 25, 2025 by Daniel Solana

Red Force FC celebrates after beating City Soccer FC 4-1 in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Red Force FC

On a warm Sunday night at Kendall Soccer Park, with a spot in the US Open Cup on the line, Red Force and City Soccer delivered a fierce, emotional, high-stakes showdown that lived up to every expectation of a “win-and-you’re-in” battle. From the opening whistle it was clear both sides understood exactly what was at stake: survive, advance, and write their names into the most iconic tournament in American soccer.

City Soccer burst out of the gates with energy and ambition, carving out two clear scoring opportunities in the opening minutes that immediately put Red Force on the defensive. The pace was intense, the touches sharp, and Red Force needed a few minutes to settle into the rhythm of the match.

It was City Soccer who struck first, capitalizing on their aggressive start. A dangerous attack down the flank eventually found its way to Auner Escobar, who made no mistake in front of goal to give City Soccer a 1–0 lead. It was a deserved advantage based on the early flow of the game.

Red Force, however, are no strangers to pressure. Their response was almost instantaneous. A beautifully constructed attacking sequence ended with Santiago Fajardo launching himself into a full-stretch diving effort, only to be denied by an excellent reaction save from the City Soccer goalkeeper. That moment served as a turning point—Red Force settled in, found their confidence, and began imposing their game.

The match quickly grew chippy, as expected from two clubs fighting for a life-changing opportunity. Hard tackles, heated confrontations, and rising tension became part of the narrative as both teams refused to back down.

Red Force found their breakthrough midway through the first half with one of the most polished plays of the night. A sharp give-and-go sliced open the City Soccer defense before the ball was whipped across to the far post, where Stiven Salinas arrived perfectly to tap it in and level the score at 1–1. It was a brilliantly executed goal—simple, quick, and lethal.

Despite City Soccer controlling large stretches of possession in the first half, it was Red Force who carried the momentum into the halftime break. Their confidence grew with every pass, every duel, every transition. At 1–1, it felt like the match was tipping in their favor.

That feeling proved accurate almost immediately after the restart. Red Force came out flying, creating danger with every attack. They had a goal from Santi Fajardo called back for offside—a decision that brought heated protests—and followed it up with two more chances that sailed just wide of the City Soccer net. The warning signs were bright and blinking.

Then came the explosion.

In the 62nd minute, John John Díaz stepped up from distance and unleashed an absolute missile from outside the box that bent away from the goalkeeper and crashed into the back of the net. Four minutes later, in the 66th, Díaz did it again—another long-range strike, another moment of brilliance, another dagger to City Soccer’s hopes. His quick brace flipped the game on its head and showcased exactly why Red Force remain one of the most respected amateur sides in South Florida.

But the match wasn’t without controversy. In the 72nd minute, Santiago Fajardo—who had been a constant threat all night—was shown a second yellow and then a red card after a heated tackle near midfield. The decision sparked outrage on the Red Force sideline, and tensions reached a boiling point as City Soccer pushed desperately to take advantage of the extra man.

Even with 10 men, Red Force refused to sit back. Their shape tightened, their defensive lines held strong, and City Soccer struggled to generate meaningful danger in the final third. Red Force played with grit, unity, and a deep understanding of game management—hallmarks of their identity.

In the dying moments of stoppage time, with City Soccer throwing numbers forward, Red Force delivered the knockout punch. In 90+4, David Ochoa found himself with a pocket of space just outside the area and ripped a stunning shot that flew past the City Soccer keeper to make it 4–1. It was the exclamation point on a statement performance—one that left no doubt about which club rules the amateur scene in Kendall.

When the final whistle blew, Red Force stood tall, victorious, and deservedly on their way to the U.S. Open Cup. City Soccer fought bravely and showed quality early, but once Red Force found their rhythm, the difference in experience, composure, and firepower became undeniable.

On this Sunday night in Kendall, Red Force didn’t just win a match—they delivered a message.

After the match, Red Force captain Steven Seballos summed up the moment with pride:

“I’m proud of the work this team and coaching staff has put in to get back into the U.S. Open Cup. We had to win some tough games to get to this point, but it feels good to be back in the most historic soccer tournament in the United States.”

And now, they march on to the biggest stage American soccer has to offer.

2026 US Open Cup Qualifying: FC America CFL Spurs get revenge on Harbor City, return to USOC

November 25, 2025 by Thomas Dupree

FC America CFL Spurs celebrate after defeating Harbor City FC 5-4 in a PK shootout (after a 1-1 draw) in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Thomas Dupree

FC America CFL Spurs advanced into the US Open Cup, qualifying Saturday after defeating Harbor City FC in a penalty shootout, edging the hosts 4-3 in a penalty kick shootout after finishing in a 1-1 draw at the end of 120 tense, physical minutes. The game was marked by heavy challenges, shifting momentum and an electric atmosphere.

In penalties, Harbor City’s only miss — a crossbar strike from second shooter, Osaro Osayamon — proved decisive. FC America converted all four of its attempts to clinch the victory and avenge last year’s qualifying loss to the same opponent.

““The boys have worked really hard this year,” America head coach Luiz Dantas said. “We are undefeated so far in the UPSL, but this was the moment we all wanted badly.

“They conducted themselves in a very serious and professional manner in training every day, and it feels great for that to pay off by getting past the hurdle we stumbled on last year. The whole team really wanted this win and I’m full of joy and pride that we made it happen.”

A 4:30 kickoff time for a soccer match in central Florida can be dicey. However, the weather was as close to perfect as you can expect as Harbor City supporters made themselves known through waving flags and raised voices, while the America supporter’s section boasted a vuvuzela could be heard far and wide.

#USOC2026 QR4: @CFLSPURS 0:1 Harbor City FC

Video of Harbor City's 6' goal by Andrew Bennett. Credit: Veter Sports pic.twitter.com/juvSJr6HRP
— TheCup.us (US Open Cup news/history) (@usopencup) November 23, 2025

From the starting whistle that familiarity made itself known in the form of crunching tackles and the slapping sound of two bodies meeting at full speed.

Officiating through the first half was especially the embodiment of “letting them play,” and the first 25 minutes were a frenetic up and down game; with the battle in the midfield being the center of action.

Harbor City did not wait long for the opening goal as a perfectly placed long ball from Forrest Ferget bounced from outside the 18-yard box to catch the FC America goalkeeper Hector Berrio Velandia in no-man’s land.

#USOC2026 QR4: FC America CFL Spurs 1:1 Harbor City FC
FC America equalize in the 17’ with a header by Akeem Flemmings in the box after he initiated the attack up the field. || LIVESTREAM (YouTube): https://t.co/74bvADGEKp pic.twitter.com/NCyMQAhY8Q
— TheCup.us (US Open Cup news/history) (@usopencup) November 23, 2025

The indecision was all that Andrew Bennett needed to crash the box, win the 50/50 ball and bury it in the back of the net to make it 1-0. It was a play in keeping with the rest of the game that produced a loud slap that could be heard across the grounds as the two players collided.

The next 20 minutes was a midfield grudge match, with whole bodies being used to throw blows. In that maelstrom Akeem Flemmings used a direct boot to the gut to light a fire in his belly, driving the ball forward from his center back position into the Harbor City half.

With a pass to a teammate, he immediately crashed the box to find himself in perfect position to head the ball into the top left corner to even the match at 1-1 before the half.

The penalty kick that sent them to the tourney! Video credit: Veter Sports. pic.twitter.com/ndUNLv74To
— TheCup.us (US Open Cup news/history) (@usopencup) November 24, 2025

The second half was a back and forth stalemate with both teams creating chances and both teams putting in a solid half of defensive work to keep things level, as the clock approached the full 90, fatigue made its influence known in the form of strong tackles from the first half turning reckless. The yellow card made its appearance towards both clubs as and the full allotment of subs were used. Meeting that full 90 all even at one goal apiece they marched into extra time with corners and set pieces coming to dominance. Each side had good scoring opportunities; however, none were completed as each side limped into penalties instead.

2026 US Open Cup Qualifying: Kalonji Pro-Profile clinch first USOC spot aided by stunning GK save

November 25, 2025 by Calum Ewing

Kalonji Pro-Profile celebrates after defeating Potros FC 1-0 in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Kalonji Pro-Profile

A couple hundred fans packed into Shiloh High School in Snellville, Ga. playing salsa music, banging bleachers, and showing home support for first time Open Cup qualifying Kalonji Pro-Profile in a 1-0 win over UPSL rivals Potros FC.

After 11 chaotic opening minutes, with possession mostly controlled by Potros, Kalonji had the game’s first scoring opportunity. Former Atlanta United 2 standout Karim Tmimi played a low ball from the left wing straight to an open Thierry Joules in the box, but Cameron Verona came up huge in goal for Potros with a kick-save to stop the effort from point-blank range.

In the 17th minute, Kalonji’s Owanja Medard ran centrally from the right wing, controlled the through ball with his chest, and was running towards goal before a light shove from a Potros defender sent him into the turf. It was a tough decision to make, but the referee did not give a penalty.

Thirteen minutes later, Potros had their first big chance on goal. A cross into the box from the left side found the head of Nazario Mbomio, but he headed it just wide of the right post.

The away side’s biggest chance would shortly follow in the 33rd minute when a cross from the left by Pedro Valenzuela fell towards Sebi Morrello. While moving and facing away from goal, Morrello flicked the ball with his back heel towards the top left corner. Goalkeeper Ashon Maynard of Kalonji dove rapidly to his right and made a ridiculous save, pushing the ball with one hand onto the crossbar.

“That’s a youngster. That’s a 2007”, said Pro-Profile Head Coach Bruno Kalonji, “an amazing keeper, as you can see.”

With just 5 minutes to go in the first half, Potros’ Benjamin Uranga picked up a yellow card. The ensuing free kick dipped considerably late into the 6 yard box, causing Uranga to head the ball backwards as he attempted to clear the danger. Cameron Verona was there to save the day again in goal just like the previous round, jumping up to push the ball over the crossbar. Verona and his backline would see off the remaining danger to keep things level at halftime.

pic.twitter.com/CjFrhTyUtU
— TheCup.us (US Open Cup news/history) (@usopencup) November 24, 2025

Nine minutes into the second half, Kalonji won a corner and rocketed a shot back towards goal from 30 yards out. It was blocked by Potros, and then the ref confidently pointed to the spot for a handball! From the stands and on replay, it was impossible to tell how correct the decision was with the pace on the shot, but the home side would not miss out on their chance to take the lead. Left back Grant Carr would step up and slot the ball home in the bottom right corner, and young Kalonji fans would invade the pitch to celebrate.

“We have a lot of experience on the field in the mix with the younger guys, you know, so we knew that we were going to score a goal eventually”, said Coach Kalonji. “Whether the PK, whether a regular goal, we knew we were going to score, so the tactics were to defend, defend, defend, to hold the game.”

And defend they did. Potros could not come close to replicating their ball movement and chance creation from the first half, and they could not play as well late as they did the round before against Atletico Buford. Kalonji Pro-Profile held onto the 1-0 lead for the remaining 38 minutes and earned their first ever Open Cup qualification in club history.

2026 US Open Cup Qualifying: Castin hat trick delivers Florida Badgers OT win, first USOC berth

November 25, 2025 by Andrew Torres-Blanco

The Florida Badgers celebrate after defeating Miami United FC 5-3 in extra time in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Florida Badgers

For the first time in their history after only being inaugurated this past season, Florida Badgers FC clinched qualification to the U.S. Lamar Hunt Open Cup in dramatic fashion. Defeating favorites Miami United FC 5-3 in the closing minutes of extra time during a goal-filled evening at Lauderhill Park. “Johnny” Castide turned into the hero bagging a tremendous hatrick full of wonder, skill, and a little luck. The game was a rollercoaster from start to finish as many travelling supporters of the Badgers were fervently cheering on the team.

The game began quite physically as both teams searched to control the tempo of the game. Miami United quickly opened the scoring thanks to their forward man Alejo Fernandez. Whose towering header left Badger centerbacks helpless after a magisterial cross from Miami full back Josduar Serrano who found enough open space to whip in a cross to Fernandez gave Miami an early lead in the sixth minute.

Despite the early lead, FC Badger’s dominated throughout the first half as their high line pressure barely left Miami any breathing room to retain possession for long periods of time. The high line pressure proved too effective as captain and star of “El Equipo Del Pueblo”, Robertino Insua was barely able to have any influence over the game during the first half.

Florida Badgers forwards Dave Junior Altidore and Schimiliguen “Johnny” Castin were consistently deadly on the counters leaving Miami defenders dazed constantly. The debutant side would be rewarded for their efforts in the 24th minute. After an unusual Robertino Insua dispossession in midfield led to forward Roodolf Jean silking a fine through ball after excellent movement in between three defenders finding Altidore who made no mistake in slotting home past the keeper to tie up the game for his second goal of the campaign.

For the rest of the half, the game continued in similar fashion as the Badgers pushed to grab the lead failing to capitalize on a few chances. The Badgers could have gone into halftime with a lead when Altidore was left one on one against the keeper after a miscommunication in Miami’s defense, but keeper Nicolas Rivera was quick to react against the forward, parrying the ball at point blank speed.

The second half began the same way as the first half with the Badgers still pushing for a lead. Their efforts would pay off once again. Electric full back Don Dave sent in a cross that was headed away from Miami Defenders only for Castin to pounce quickly and skilfully dummied past his marker and scored past Rivera in the 65th minute. Leaving the Miami bench stunned as their run for the first time in four consecutive years in qualification, looked to be coming to an early end and missing out on a major tournament.

While the Badgers continued to be dangerous in possession, Miami always looked like they were ready to ride the initial storm and be ready to capitalize on any mistakes the Badgers might make. Emotions were high, every ball was fought to the end and Miami embraced this role. Coach Jerome Joseph of the Badgers continued to shout orders to his players to keep calm and not let emotions rise.

Despite this, in the 77th minute Miami showed why you can never count them out early, Serrano tried whipping a cross in similar fashion he did for their first goal but instead was met by a hand ball by a Badger defender, where the referee made no mistake in ruling a penalty in favor of United. Captain Robertino Insua stepped up to the occasion after a quiet night, calmly slotting home the penalty down the bottom left corner that tied the game up 2-2.

From then on the Badgers lost all momentum, the penalty clearly affected the players as Miami United who are experienced in these moments know when to deliver even in difficult situations.

The pendulum shifted and Miami had control for the remaining 15 minutes, Insua tried doing a cheeky tiki taka with substitute Teo Candido who had his shot saved at the near post by Barhemly Marc who was solid throughout the whole night behind goal.

As the game continued to get physical and Miami looked ever-growing, the referee blew the whistle for full time. Once again Miami United would have to go into extra time in qualification.

Miami would not have to wait long, as only two minutes into the first half of extra time center back Peterson Revange skilfully dispossessed Castin and sent a high ball to winger Sony Norde on the counter attack that cut in. Norde sent a diagonal pass to substitute Teo Candido who cut in as well and sent a rocket flying into the top right corner leaving Badgers keeper Marc helpless giving Miami a 3-2 lead. At this point, the Badgers looked battered as their momentum kept crashing and the team struggled to be potent on the offensive.

They needed a hero of individual brilliance and that is exactly what they got from Castin.

Minutes later an inspired Castin sent in a low cross after Miami defenders struggled to contain him in the penalty box. Despite initially looking as if the danger was averted, the rebound was left to fullback Don Dave who answered with another volley of his own past Rivera that tied the game 3-3.

While it seemed like everything was pointing to a penalty shootout an inspired Castin and co wanted to finish this in normal time. In the final five minutes Castin had an individual skill of brilliance by sending a deflected chip past Rivera and three Miami defenders to make it 4-3.

Seconds later he converted another penalty after a foul committed by Insua who had a night to forget and was sent off. Castin had his penalty initially saved by Rivera but was able to get the rebound completing a heroic hat trick for his team, ending the game 5-3. In a game where it could have gone any way for either team Castin was just unstoppable and proved to be the decider in the end.

As the Referee blew the final whistle crowds in support of the Badgers, which consisted of friends and families, rejoiced and jumped on the field to celebrate with the players as did the coaches and staff as they sang and chanted gleefully on a historic night.

Following the match, Castin gave his thoughts and aspirations for the Florida Badgers going forward following their qualification into the tournament, “We want to make it as far as we can, work hard, it’s all about working hard, but also, you we know we don’t only play soccer, we are also working, so we at least see the Haitian community trying to do something, we are just expecting to make it as far as we can.”

The Florida Badgers set their sights on the US Open Cup 2026 as they look back on a memorable year while Miami United are bowing out early for the first time in four years from qualification. An incredible story of resilience against all odds and most of all an early upset in the tournament.

2026 US Open Cup Qualifying: Emiland Elezaj leads SC Vistula Garfield to first USOC berth since 1970s

November 25, 2025 by Matt Ralph

SC Vistula Garfield celebrates after defeating Oaklyn United 2-1 in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Matt Ralph | Philadelphia Soccer Now

A standout goalkeeping performance, a first-half brace and the grit and determination of a player born in the early ‘80s propelled SC Vistula Garfield to their first U.S. Open Cup berth in the modern era after a 2-1 win over Oaklyn United Sunday night at Rowan University.

Oaklyn United, coming off a convincing 3-1 win over Vereinigung Erzgebirge on the same field three weeks earlier, appeared to be firing on all cylinders again early in the first half, creating multiple good looks on goal but SC Vistula Garfield goalkeeper Aldo Munoz was there several times to deny those chances. The 22-year-old had three key saves in the earlier stages of the match to keep it scoreless.

“He definitely kept us in the game,” head coach Sebastian Rojas said of Munoz. “He was definitely the player of the match for me.”

Chances the other way were fewer and far between, but danger man Emiland Elezaj reversed fortunes in a four-minute span in the latter stages of the half with a pair of goals. The first came when he dribbled his way into the left side of the box and drew a foul. He converted with a cheeky panenka from the spot to make it 1-0 and then minutes later was back pushing the ball into the final third.

This time instead of dribbling it into the box he backheeled a pass to an overlapping Nikolce Iloski to his left. After the cross was initially intercepted by a defender, the former Red Bull Academy player won the ball back and curled it toward the back post past an outstretched Matt Perrella.

“I saw where the keeper was and where I was and I knew there was only one place it needed to go,” Elezaj said. “So I sent it toward the far post.”

Players from SC Vistula Garfield celebrate after scoring a goal against Oaklyn United in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Matt Ralph | Philadelphia Soccer Now

Elezaj is no stranger to scoring big goals in U.S. Open Cup qualifying. He had four in qualifying for NJ Alliance FC last year and had the opener in their “win and in” game, which ended up going Alliance’s way in penalty kicks after Elezaj was forced out of the game with an injury.

“I was here in this same position last year and I’m just glad to be part of it again and for these guys to get to experience it,” Elezaj said. “There’s nothing like it.”

Oaklyn United had plenty of time down 2-0 to find their way back and like they did in spurts throughout the night were pouring on the pressure. Whether it was Munoz there to deny them on the doorstep or a promising attack ending in an offside flag or a shot wide of the mark, the goal just didn’t seem to be in the cards until there was precious little time left.

It came in stoppage time when Samuel Quaye was taken down on a run into the box. Jade Mesias converted from the spot past Munoz, who got a hand to the attempt but couldn’t keep it out.

Players from SC Vistula Garfield (right) and Oaklyn United battle for the ball in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Matt Ralph | Philadelphia Soccer Now

The mad dash to try and add a second would produce one more moment for Jason Mancuso. It came off a pass into the box by Mesias but Mancuso’s shot from the left side of the box went agonizingly wide of the far post. Mancuso sank to his knees on the turf with his head in his hands knowing how close he, and his team, had come all night to history.

“I think we were the better team through 90 minutes but just couldn’t finish it,” said Oaklyn United player-coach Matt Perrella, who had a save in the first half but wasn’t really tested in goal after halftime. “We haven’t expected to consistently win in a while, and the fact that we expected to win and we’re disappointed by it is a good thing as a club.”

On the flipside of the shock felt by the hosts was the elation of the winners, a fellow American Premier Soccer League Club that lifted the “qualified” banner like it was a trophy after posing for a team photo. The New Jersey club dates back to 1952 but last competed in the U.S. Open Cup in the 1970s and has the added feather in their cap of making it through the gauntlet of qualifying.

In the middle of the celebration scenes was veteran Christopher Karcz, one of several players on the team with deep roots in the club. Karcz’s father played for SC Vistula and his daughter is currently playing at the youth level with the club, something he did as a kid. Karcz went on to debut for the men’s team prior to a successful career at Rutgers and stint with the New York Red Bulls.

The APSL’s golden boot winner last season, the 42-year-old can add qualifying for the US Open Cup to his impressive career resume.

“It’s my hometown team so it’s like fighting for the village,” Karcz said. “I love playing for this team and I hope to do so for as many years as my body lets me.”

2026 US Open Cup Qualifying: ASC New Stars win PK shootout to end 14-year USOC drought

November 25, 2025 by Adam Uthe

ASC New Stars celebrate after defeating Denton Diablos 4-3 in a PK shootout (after a 0-0 draw) in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: ASC New Stars

For the fourth time in club history – and the first time since 2012 – Houston’s ASC New Stars are headed to the US Open Cup. The visiting side overcame an extra time red card from defender Eric Robertson (his second yellow of the match) and a furious attack from hosts Denton Diablos to force penalty kicks, where they advanced 4-3 behind two massive saves from goalkeeper Emmanuel Frias.

From the opening kick, it looked as if Denton Diablos were destined to advance. Their initial pressure forced three corner kicks in the first 10 minutes of the match. Striker Jay Lee – who scored two goals on two separate occasions in the earlier rounds of qualifying – stretched ASC’s backline throughout the first half, but the visitors managed to bend without breaking. Denton’s sustained pressure began to wane towards the end of the first half and the New Stars’ confidence grew as they began to find the gaps in transition. Neither side, however, broke the deadlock.

Both sides picked up where they left off coming out of halftime; Denton kept up its attack and New Stars exploited the space in behind in transition. The Diablos looked to have finally broken the dam in 77th minute, but a brilliant diving header off a free kick from Eric Robertson’s first yellow card was ruled offside. Lee’s finishing touch seemingly had abandoned him; a 90th minute header sailed just over the bar and extra time would be required.

ASC New Stars head coach Tom Khalili admitted his side were losing the fitness battle late in the game as extra time came into play. And in the 113th minute, Eric Robertson’s second yellow card of the night looked as if it might be a fatal blow to the Houston side’s resistance. But the New Stars managed to hang on and force a shootout.

Each side converted their first three chances before ASC’s goalkeeper Emmanual Frias – who has featured previously in the Open Cup with NTX Rayados – came up with not one, but two saves that proved to be decisive; New Stars’ proved too much for Denton to overcome. Camilo Botero Fonseca converted the winning spot kick for the visitors.

“Oh, it was an awesome game. Anybody could have won it.” Khalili mused afterwards “ are a good, legitimate team…but we wanted to get there, and the guys showed passion. And when it goes to penalty kicks, it’s anybody’s game.”

He felt so strongly in his team’s overall performance, he couldn’t bring himself to single out any individual players.

“I honestly cannot pick one out. It would be unfair to all the other players. So I think I would just take my hat off to all my players. I love them all.”

ASC New Stars now await their fate in the 2026 Open Cup draw.

Penalty Kick Shootout Summary

Diego Herrera, ASC: GOAL
Eric Gomez Silva, Denton: GOAL
Ivan Andre Luquetta, ASC: GOAL
Jay Lee, Denton: GOAL
Hani Husain Ahmad, ASC: GOAL
Mason Moyers, Denton: GOAL
Quayyum Akorede Murana, ASC: SAVED
Matthew Albury, Denton: SAVED
Camilo Botero Fonseca, ASC: GOAL
Arnold Onyango, Denton: SAVED

2026 US Open Cup Qualifying: BOHFS St. Louis makes history with thrilling win over Chicago House

November 25, 2025 by Tim Thomas

BOHFS St. Louis celebrates after defeating Chicago House 3-2 in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: BOHFS St. Louis

A new chapter was written in the St. Louis vs Chicago rivalry Sunday at St. Mary’s High School on the city’s south side. In front of a raucous crowd that featured a strong contingent of Chicago traveling fans, BOHFS St. Louis (MWPL) won a 3-2 thriller over Chicago House (MWPL) in a 2026 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup qualifier.

With the win, BOHFS St. Louis becomes the first amateur team from the Gateway City to qualify for the Open Cup in the tournament’s Modern Era (1995-present).

BOHFS scored in the 31^st minute and seemed to be cruising for the first half. Until a 40^th minute goal by Chicago House drew the game even. BOHFS wasted no time responding and quickly followed with a 42^nd minute goal.

A 54^th minute goal by Elliot Goodwin seemingly had the game sealed for St. Louis. Chicago would not be quieted as a stoppage time goal by Ricardo Avalos filled the waning minutes with tension. In the end, Goodwin’s goal would stand as the winner.

“Credit to everybody that wore a white shirt today. Everybody put 100% in and those are the results you can get when you work hard,” Goodwin said.

Despite both teams playing in the Midwest Premier League, they have never faced each other. St. Louis plays in the Gateway Conference South Division and Chicago plays in the Heartland Conference Division 1. Chicago House has an Open Cup pedigree, having qualified for the tournament twice, whereas BOHFS is in its inaugural season.

“We really didn’t know what to expect,” Goodwin said, “we knew they were going to be good, we knew they were going to be organized.”

BOHFS came out on the front foot with physical play keeping the ball in the House end early. In the 20^th minute, House strung together a pair of solid chances off corner kicks, which swung the momentum in their favor. From the early moments, this Open Cup Amateur Qualifying game had all the atmosphere of a championship.

“It was a little chippy,” BOHFS Founder/Coach Alen Bradaric said. “It was like a final. So, you expect all of that stuff. Lots of talking from the benches.”

Then, against the run of play, Michael Utley muscled the ball off a House defender in the Chicago third. Utley pushed by and drove home the opening goal.

BOHFS kept the pressure on House searching for a second goal. With BOHFS pushing numbers forward, they were caught off guard by a smooth House counterattack.

As House players moved forward, two BOHFS players ran into each other and a BOHFS defender slipped in the box, clearing the way for Avalos to score in the 40^th minute.

The draw wouldn’t last long. A mere two minutes later BOHFS was given a free kick. The ball was struck well towards the far corner of the House net. There it found the foot of Brian Bement, who scored off a volley.

“Set pieces are huge in the game. They can win you games or lose you games and you just gotta stay switched on at all times,” Goodwin said.

BOHFS carried the first half momentum into the second half pressing House early. A slick pass by Liam Collins sprung Goodwin for a breakaway goal.

The play had all the signifiers of the kind of goal that can be scored when two players are familiar with each other. For Collins and Goodwin, the connection they’ve built goes back years.

“He was actually my college coach,” Goodwin said, “he was an assistant coach when I was playing in college. So, I’ve known Liam for a long time.”

With a 3-1 lead, BOHFS began to make substitutions in an effort to park the bus and stitch up the victory. But, Chicago would not go quietly into that good night.

House began throwing players forward and putting pressure on the BOHFS defense. A 68^th minute shot off a long throw-in forced BOHFS goalkeeper, Liam Gibbs, to make a diving save.

Reminiscing an epic U.S. Open Cup Qualifying match…

BOHFS St. Louis advanced to their first ever Open Cup invitation after beating Chicago House AC 3-2. It was their first time competing in the Qualifying Rounds, and now they'll see the tournament proper in March. pic.twitter.com/B9rMGZXDUe
— Midwest Premier League (@midwestpl) November 24, 2025

In the dying minutes of the game Avalos scored again for House. With the score now 3-2, the ending would be nerve wracking as House frantically whipped the ball into the BOHFS box, including a free kick chance in which Gibbs would once again have to come up big in goal for St. Louis.

In the end it was to no avail, BOHFS St. Louis came away with a victory and the fans went away getting every penny worth from a $6 ticket.

BOHFS generally recruits from an older and more experienced player pool. The quick response to the first Chicago goal and the strong effort to close out the match showed the benefits of the roster constructed by Bradaric.

“I don’t want to put too many restrictions and this and that. Just play freely,” Bradaric said. “It’s like you guys have so much experience, you read the game so well, enjoy it when we have it.”

This was the first home match BOHFS hosted during the Open Cup qualifying games. Their previous two matches were played in Kansas City and Omaha. Now that they have qualified, the opportunity to host a professional team looms large.

“We’re just grateful to be in it and we’re happy. If they send us to Alaska, it is what it is. We’ll go,” Bradaric said.

This marks BOHFS St. Louis’ first ever qualification to the Open Cup. For Bradaric, the team he founded is entering uncharted waters that will pose greater challenges. But that is no reason for him to worry.

“Eleven months ago, we weren’t even a team,” he said.

2026 US Open Cup Qualifying: Laguna United qualify at San Diego’s expense again

November 24, 2025 by MaryBeth Zmuda

Laguna United celebrates after defeating San Diego Internacional 4-2 in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Laguna United FC

Laguna United FC held a master class on Saturday night as they completed their path to qualifying for the 2026 US Open Cup with a decisive 4-2 win over visiting UPSL side San Diego Internacional.

This win looked very similar to last year’s “Win & You’re In” match in the qualifying rounds where LUFC beat Inter down in San Diego by an even wider margin, 6-2.

“We played a familiar opposing team, repeating the same round versus San Diego Internacional last year but the match was away,” said Sam Nicholson, head coach of Laguna United. “This year it was great to play, and win, in front of a home crowd.”

Brandon Cortez was the only goal scorer for San Diego Internacional, getting a brace for his team in the first half as all the goal scoring for both sides came in the first 45 minutes.

SD Internacional got the scoring started quickly as Cortez was at the receiving end of a long throw-in from teammate Jake Haupt in the 4th minute. Haupt’s massive effort placed the ball dead in front of the net allowing Cortez to flick a perfect header right past Laguna United keeper Jacob Estall.

Not to be outdone, just four minutes later LUFC got to light up their side of the scoreboard. Starting all the way from their own net, Laguna utilized a series of stealthy passes to move the ball quickly into striking distance. The final two passes at the end of that chain were Hudson Garner with a lightening pass to star striker Mikey Barraza who blasted it past the out of position Laguna keeper making 1-1.

Support TheCup.us and its coverage of the US Open Cup by purchasing a "US Open Cup Champions" shirt which celebrates the five teams with the most titles (pre-Modern Era). Visit THECUP.US SHOP — Support TheCup.us and its coverage of the US Open Cup by purchasing a “US Open Cup Champions” shirt which celebrates the five teams with the most titles (pre-Modern Era). Visit THECUP.US SHOP

Garner got his second assist for the night when he sent the ball over to teammate Woody Angell who slotted it home giving Laguna their first lead of the game at 2-1.

In the 36th minute, Cortez got his second for Inter.

Once again he was in a perfect position as a ball got placed directly at his waiting boot — and without letting it hit the ground — he was able to leave Estall stunned and sent the ball straight to the back of the net.

United would regain the lead for good with goals in the 39th and 42nd minutes. Woody Angell scored his second goal of the game from the penalty spot. Three minutes later, Angell assisted on Marc Birkelund’s goal. That 4-2 halftime lead would hold up for the remainder of the game.

Little did either side know that the final goal of the match had already been scored. After a huge six goals in the first half, the second half wouldn’t see a single ball get between the pipes.

Both sides continued to put in full effort and did manage to create chances but neither could complete the task.

LUFC advances to the US Open Cup proper where they will try to improve on their debut last year. They lost their first round game to MLS NEXT Pro side Ventura County FC 7-0 on the road.